The Gospel: Ringing Out! (Part 2)

Scripture Reading — 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.
— 1 Thessalonians 1:8

Last year, my favorite baseball team came within inches of winning the World Series. There were a lot of sad faces after the team’s loss. I found myself imagining what the team’s home city would have looked like if they had won. People would have poured out into the streets, shouting for joy. Horns would be blowing, and bells would be ringing.

In our Bible reading for today, Paul reflects on the powerful message ringing out into the streets and the surrounding areas of Thessalonika. He talks about how he and his companions came to that city and shared the gospel with the community there (see Acts 17). As a result, he says, “You became imitators of us and of the Lord.” The good news of Jesus found a home in the hearts of these new believers, and they couldn’t stop talking about it. Paul describes the Lord’s message as ringing out or resonating from their lives. Listen again to what he says in verse 8: “The Lord’s message rang out [resonated] from you . . .—your faith in God has become known everywhere.” Talk about making a joyful noise for God!

As you think about your own faith journey, what would it look like for your life to ring out with the good news of Jesus today, tomorrow, and every day?

Dear Jesus, may your life take hold of me and fill me with such joy and excitement that I cannot help talking about you and reflecting your love and grace in all I do and say. Amen.

Written by: Kevin DeRaaf